Alex Levin, co-founder of L+R, a design & technology studio established in 2012, has dedicated the past four years to bridging the gap between traditional businesses and the Web3 space. L+R is recognized for its award-winning work with both SMBs and enterprise clients, focusing on digital transformation and brand strategy. Levin employs a practical approach, introducing companies to the Web3 domain through proofs of concept and providing more traditional strategy consulting to Web3 companies. He emphasizes human-computer interaction, a deep understanding of blockchain, and the critical importance of security and privacy.

Alongside his achievements at L+R, Levin also spearheaded the creation of Nurture within the firm, a Web3 employee experience platform. Designed to revolutionize employee benefits and rewards programs, Nurture turns them into collaborative adventures, enhanced with interactive and educational experiences. This initiative, built under the L+R banner, underscores Levin's commitment to leveraging innovative solutions to help organizations attract and retain top talent through more engaging and meaningful incentives.

Levin's vision is to demonstrate how blockchain technology can foster community-driven ecosystems, potentially revolutionizing how businesses interact with their customers and each other. He also shares his expertise by contributing to Forbes on the luxury NFT market, sharing insights, successes, and learnings from collaborations with prestigious brands such as Sotheby's, Tag Heuer, Lamborghini, and Bugatti. His talent for simplifying complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies for both traditional and digital-first companies highlights his deep expertise in the field.

Alex Levin, co-founder of L+R, a design & technology studio established in 2012, has dedicated the past four years to bridging the gap between traditional businesses and the Web3 space. L+R is recognized for its award-winning work with both SMBs and ... Show more

Eriol has been working as a designer for 10+ years working in for-profits and then NGO's and open-source software organisations, working on complex problems like sustainable food systems, peace-building and crisis response technology. Eriol now works at Superbloom design, research, open-source and technology projects.

Eriol is a part-time funded PhD researcher at Newcastle University's Open Lab looking at how designers participate in humanitarian and human rights focussed open-source software projects.

They are also part of the core teams at Open Source Design (http://opensourcedesign.net/) and Human Rights Centred Design working group (https://hrcd.pubpub.org/) and Sustain UX & Design working group (https://sustainoss.org/working-groups/design-and-ux/) and help hosts podcast about open source and design (https://sosdesign.sustainoss.org/)

Eriol is a non-binary, queer person who uses they/them pronouns.

Eriol has been working as a designer for 10+ years working in for-profits and then NGO's and open-source software organisations, working on complex problems like sustainable food systems, peace-building and crisis response technology. Eriol now works... Show more

With 3+ years of experience in B2B and B2C environments, Saurav is focused on solving critical challenges with empathy and creativity. His work thrives in the 0 to 1 zone, shaping ideas from inception to execution. With interests in Critical and Speculative Design, UX Design, Type design, Music and Art

Saurav is an alumnus of NID Haryana and UAL London. He has worked for IBM, Acuity KP, Hugosave, Piktorlabs (UST Evolve), & more. Recently a speaker at Digifest’24, ICC Birmingham.

With 3+ years of experience in B2B and B2C environments, Saurav is focused on solving critical challenges with empathy and creativity. His work thrives in the 0 to 1 zone, shaping ideas from inception to execution. With interests in Critical and Spec... Show more

Experienced Founder and CEO with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Skilled in Communication, NFT Experts, NFT Creator and Collector, Management, Leadership, and Presentations. Strong business development professional with a Master of Business Administration - MBA focused in International Business from Schiller International University.

Experienced Founder and CEO with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Skilled in Communication, NFT Experts, NFT Creator and Collector, Management, Leadership, and Presentations. Strong business devel... Show more

Ian Utile is a tech entrepreneur from the Silicon Valley. He is an 10x co-founder, 4x entrepreneur in residence, he guest lectures at four difference universities, and co-produces tech events. Ian's family has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for ten generations as his ancestor founded the City of San Jose in 1777.

Ian Utile is a tech entrepreneur from the Silicon Valley. He is an 10x co-founder, 4x entrepreneur in residence, he guest lectures at four difference universities, and co-produces tech events. Ian's family has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for ... Show more

Passionate about leading Agile transformations 🚀, Joseph ASSAF is an experienced Agile Trainer and Coach with a unique edge: a background as a NAAB-accredited Architect 🏛️. This dual expertise enriches his approach, allowing him to integrate architectural design principles with Agile methodologies to deliver creative and structured solutions. With strong intercultural communication skills 🌍, he successfully supports teams and organizations in complex, multicultural environments—guiding them toward performance, agility, and innovation.

Passionate about leading Agile transformations 🚀, Joseph ASSAF is an experienced Agile Trainer and Coach with a unique edge: a background as a NAAB-accredited Architect 🏛️. This dual expertise enriches his approach, allowing him to integrate archit... Show more

Katie Rose Kaufman is a seasoned Senior Release Train Engineer and program leader with a dynamic career spanning multiple industries, including tech, entertainment, and healthcare. A systems thinker and change agent, Katie Rose specializes in navigating complex transformations, streamlining processes, and driving alignment across cross-functional teams.

Passionate about career development and leadership, Katie Rose is also a dedicated mentor and career coach, sharing insights on agile methodologies, program management, and professional growth. Recognized as a top career guidance expert (featured on a Times Square billboard!), Katie Rose is committed to helping others build meaningful careers through strategic advocacy, mentorship, and practical guidance.

With a unique blend of fine arts and tech experience, Katie Rose brings a fresh perspective to leadership, adaptability, and innovation in the modern workplace.

Katie Rose Kaufman is a seasoned Senior Release Train Engineer and program leader with a dynamic career spanning multiple industries, including tech, entertainment, and healthcare. A systems thinker and change agent, Katie Rose specializes in navigat... Show more

Veronica Shelton is a creative director and UX strategist with 15+ years in product design, branding, and digital transformation. As co-founder of Oak Theory, she leads UX/UI, web development, and e-commerce projects with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility. With experience across Fortune 500s, startups, and social impact organizations, she brings a unique perspective on the intersection of design and technology.

Veronica Shelton is a creative director and UX strategist with 15+ years in product design, branding, and digital transformation. As co-founder of Oak Theory, she leads UX/UI, web development, and e-commerce projects with a focus on inclusivity and a... Show more

Tanesha L. Moody knows what it means to pivot—boldly, strategically, and without losing who you are in the process.

From calling cues on Broadway-style stages to leading global events for Under Armour, Salesforce, Marriott, and Disney, Tanesha has lived the power of reinvention—again and again. Whether navigating career transitions, building teams from scratch, or showing up after rejection, she brings an unmatched blend of honesty, resilience, and clarity to the stage.

Her journey has been a masterclass in resilience and leading through uncertainty—which is why her signature keynote, The Art of the Pivot, resonates so deeply with those navigating change, career shifts, or bold leadership moves. Tanesha teaches audiences how to adapt without losing authenticity, lead without fear, and thrive—even when everything changes.

Tanesha's approach is insightful, engaging, and deeply relatable. She doesn’t just share theories—she tells the behind-the-scenes truths of what it really takes to pivot full out and turn challenges into opportunities. Audiences leave with actionable strategies, fresh perspectives, and the confidence to take their next bold step.

Organizers don’t bring Tanesha in for a cookie-cutter leadership talk. They book her because she’s relatable, strategic, and able to speak to the heart of high-achieving professionals who are tired of wearing masks and ready to lead with authenticity and purpose.

Signature Keynotes Include:
The Art of the Pivot: Leading, Living, and Thriving Full Out
Falling Full Out: How to Turn Rejection & Failure into Your Superpower
Full Out Leadership: Elevating Performance, Influence & Agility
Say It Like a Leader: How to Give Feedback That Actually Works
Resilience & Rejection in Leadership: Turning Setbacks into Breakthroughs
Living Full Out: Breaking Free from Fear & Playing Bigger

Book Tanesha to deliver a keynote that’s high-impact, high-empathy, and impossible to forget.

Website: www.taneshalmoody.com/speaker

Tanesha L. Moody knows what it means to pivot—boldly, strategically, and without losing who you are in the process. From calling cues on Broadway-style stages to leading global events for Under Armour, Salesforce, Marriott, and Disney, Tanesha has... Show more

Professional writer who specializes in explaining complicated concepts in plain English at a level appropriate for the target audience.

Over 15 years experience of writing SaaS product content, IT procedures, API documentation, tutorials, online help, FAQs, and specifications.

Other writing skills include blogs, creative writing, feature articles, site content, and well-researched historical/scholarly content.

Specialties: Content structure and information architecture, cutting-edge technology, remote connectivity, visual support solutions, IT, event organization, site design and usability, user advocate, plain English, open source software, mobile devices, Linux, games, creative writing, horses, archaeology, ancient Rome, ancient Gaul

Professional writer who specializes in explaining complicated concepts in plain English at a level appropriate for the target audience. Over 15 years experience of writing SaaS product content, IT procedures, API documentation, tutorials, online ... Show more

Vinicius Barros | Agile Coach | Inovação & Transformação Digital | Palestrante

Recifense e grande entusiasta da agilidade, sou Agile Coach, graduado em Ciência da Computação, pós-graduado em Data Science e MBA em Gestão de Projetos e Metodologias Ágeis. Atualmente, estou em andamento no MBA de Gestão de Pessoas e Design Thinking.

Apaixonado por inovação e transformação digital, busco constantemente novos insights para impulsionar mudanças e agregar valor. Tenho presença ativa em eventos de Agilidade e momentos empresariais, onde compartilho conhecimento e experiências. Além disso, desenvolvo palestras motivacionais que conectam tecnologia, agilidade e desenvolvimento pessoal, criando uma abordagem única para inspirar e transformar.

Acredito que unir agilidade, inovação e propósito é um diferencial essencial para impulsionar equipes e pessoas rumo ao sucesso.

Vinicius Barros | Agile Coach | Inovação & Transformação Digital | Palestrante Recifense e grande entusiasta da agilidade, sou Agile Coach, graduado em Ciência da Computação, pós-graduado em Data Science e MBA em Gestão de Projetos e Metodologias ... Show more

Artemis Bear (they/them) lost faith in our system of government working in climate policy in the 2000s and is committed to co-creating new structures for rapid, pragmatic systemic change. They founded The Garden, an innovative education project, in 2016, which centres young people's rights and has been a laboratory for the building blocks of an emergent culture that is fairer and freer. They also co-ordinate the Freedom to Learn network and co-produce community cabaret SCRiTCH.

Artemis Bear (they/them) lost faith in our system of government working in climate policy in the 2000s and is committed to co-creating new structures for rapid, pragmatic systemic change. They founded The Garden, an innovative education project, in 2... Show more

Seit 2018 arbeitet Alessandra Reß im E-Learning-Support verschiedener rheinland-pfälzischer Hochschulen, seit 2024 an der Hochschule Koblenz. Ihre Schwerpunkte liegen in den Bereichen OER, KI und digitale Barrierefreiheit. Daneben ist sie als Autorin und Redakteurin tätig.

Seit 2018 arbeitet Alessandra Reß im E-Learning-Support verschiedener rheinland-pfälzischer Hochschulen, seit 2024 an der Hochschule Koblenz. Ihre Schwerpunkte liegen in den Bereichen OER, KI und digitale Barrierefreiheit. Daneben ist sie als Autori... Show more

Meet Ryan Patrick Hunt, a dynamic U.S. Army retiree and entrepreneur based in Chicago. As the driving force behind Tenth Mountain Recruiting, specializing in Tech startups, and the upcoming recruiting software platform 3 Purple Squirrels, Ryan is reshaping the hiring landscape. His visionary leadership extends to Pando Commando, an e-commerce/digital marketing venture that generated over $493k in 2016. Passionate about connecting people, he orchestrated the impactful Veteran Social Summit in 2020, uniting 583 veterans to elevate the military community. Collaborating with Veteran Lifestyle Magazine and Straight Outta Combat Podcast, Ryan's mission is to empower veterans. Beyond business, he cherishes family time, embraces global adventures, hiking, and a love for movies.

Meet Ryan Patrick Hunt, a dynamic U.S. Army retiree and entrepreneur based in Chicago. As the driving force behind Tenth Mountain Recruiting, specializing in Tech startups, and the upcoming recruiting software platform 3 Purple Squirrels, Ryan is res... Show more

Stephen Vineburg is a creator of NFTs as well as a recognised speaker and commentator on the NFT market. His NFT and AR enhanced art has reached a broad audience. His most recent video on his project ‘Coming Out of Our Shell’ attracted 2.3m views on Instagram.

Vineburg is also a pioneer in the use of NFT’s to create AR experiences on wearable garments such as hoodies and T-shirts, bringing still images to life via QR codes and AR filters on Instagram.

His art addresses serious contemporary issues by mixing historical and classical art images juxtaposed with modern items.

Stephen Vineburg is a creator of NFTs as well as a recognised speaker and commentator on the NFT market. His NFT and AR enhanced art has reached a broad audience. His most recent video on his project ‘Coming Out of Our Shell’ attracted 2.3m views on ... Show more

With a reputation as a seasoned storyteller and visionary leader, I bring over 17 years of extensive experience across the technology landscape. My journey began humbly as a Process Associate and evolved into my current role as Head of Design and Innovation at Tata Consultancy Services’ Professional Services Business Unit. This adventurous path has spanned diverse industries, geographies, and challenges, each step enriching my understanding of the transformative power of innovation.

At the helm of design and innovation, I craft transformative strategies that integrate creativity, technology, and behavioral insights to propel growth and deliver unparalleled user experiences. My expertise lies in rapid prototyping, creative concept design, and large-scale digital transformations, all with the singular goal of making people's lives simpler, more efficient, and memorable.

My career is marked by developing products and services that seamlessly blend user-centric design with business agility, enhancing customer satisfaction and delivering tangible results. By infusing design innovation into every aspect of my work, I’ve driven user engagement, anticipated market trends, and directly contributed to revenue growth for global organizations.

I firmly believe in learning from history to think ahead and act decisively. Drawing inspiration from cultural and historical contexts, I design for tomorrow’s challenges while innovating in the present. My ultimate mission is to simplify people’s lives and empower them to achieve their personal and professional goals, leaving behind a legacy of meaningful impact and transformative innovation.

As a storyteller, I don’t just share ideas—I create experiences that connect, inspire, and spark action.

With a reputation as a seasoned storyteller and visionary leader, I bring over 17 years of extensive experience across the technology landscape. My journey began humbly as a Process Associate and evolved into my current role as Head of Design and Inn... Show more

Kae9mm is a cyber musician who blends hip-hop, techno and futuristic themes in his music. He is known for his innovative use of virtual reality and augmented reality in his live performances and music videos. He has recently partnered with United Realites, a leading metaverse company, to create immersive and interactive experiences for his fans. Kae9mm aims to push the boundaries of music and technology and to explore new dimensions of creativity and expression.

Kae9mm is a cyber musician who blends hip-hop, techno and futuristic themes in his music. He is known for his innovative use of virtual reality and augmented reality in his live performances and music videos. He has recently partnered with United Rea... Show more

Yasmina Stitou is a brand strategist, AI consultant, and founder of CASANEGRA, an AI-driven creative studio specializing in cultural strategy and groundbreaking campaigns. With nearly a decade of experience working with global brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills, Veuve Clicquot, and Marriott International, Yasmina merges cutting-edge AI tools with creative expertise to craft impactful strategies that drive customer engagement, press coverage, and beyond.

Known for her innovative approach and deep understanding of consumer behavior, Yasmina has helped startups and Fortune 500 companies adapt to the fast-changing digital landscape. Her work has earned industry recognition, including the PRCA MENA Award and MEPRA Small Agency of the Year.

Yasmina Stitou is a brand strategist, AI consultant, and founder of CASANEGRA, an AI-driven creative studio specializing in cultural strategy and groundbreaking campaigns. With nearly a decade of experience working with global brands like Anastasia B... Show more

Christopher Burpee is the Director of Student Centers at University of Chicago. Chris previously worked at both Northwestern University and Northeastern Illinois University. Chris served on the Conference Program Team for the 2022 Annual Conference in Chicago. He has a Masters in Higher Education Administration and Policy from Northwestern University, and a BFA from DePaul University.

Christopher Burpee is the Director of Student Centers at University of Chicago. Chris previously worked at both Northwestern University and Northeastern Illinois University. Chris served on the Conference Program Team for the 2022 Annual Conference... Show more

As a developer with over twenty years of experience, I have fallen in love with Web3 from all perspectives. I have deployed contracts and created minting experiences for many clients while founding my collection. Besides being a web3 founder, I have also established La Barbería Webis, bridging the gap between Blockchain education and alpha to Spanish and English speakers.

As a developer with over twenty years of experience, I have fallen in love with Web3 from all perspectives. I have deployed contracts and created minting experiences for many clients while founding my collection. Besides being a web3 founder, I have ... Show more

Kelvin Denzel Miles aka Poison Peso De' Gretzsky was born in Brooklyn , NY , when my mom passed my grandparents thought it would be better for me to be raised in North Carolina. I was a great student and learned how to be a man from my grandfather. Art was always my thing and just being a creative person. Music was always my passion from singing in youth church to choir at school. Other than that is was athletics and education. My father was and still lives in brooklyn and i tell him little things about nfts all the time. NFTS changed and are changing my life. Co-Founder of United Realities "URL to the IRL"

Kelvin Denzel Miles aka Poison Peso De' Gretzsky was born in Brooklyn , NY , when my mom passed my grandparents thought it would be better for me to be raised in North Carolina. I was a great student and learned how to be a man from my grandfather. A... Show more

Jim Hernandez is an experienced NFT Project Manager dedicated to building strong teams and onboarding more people into Web3. With over 30 years in high-volume retail recruiting, luxury retail management, and personal styling, he brings a unique blend of expertise to the space.

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the South Bronx, Jim has traveled extensively for work, including four years in Hawaii. Now based in Scottsdale, Arizona, he enjoys life with his wife and son while continuing to grow his NFT project and Web3 presence.

Jim Hernandez is an experienced NFT Project Manager dedicated to building strong teams and onboarding more people into Web3. With over 30 years in high-volume retail recruiting, luxury retail management, and personal styling, he brings a unique blend... Show more

Horacio Corral is a game translation professor with over 10 years of experience and the founder of Tacet Books, a publishing house with over 1,000 books published. Creator of the Supercourse on Game Translation, he has also participated in several editions of the LocJAMs, gaining practical experience in localization. Recently, he led the translation process for the game Portal do Triunfo, developed by the Sala Maker at Fatec Carapicuíba under the supervision of Professor Érika Caramello, managing a team of translators to adapt the game for an international audience. In addition, he teaches courses such as those at Faculdade LabPub, where he shares his expertise with students and professionals in the field.

Horacio Corral is a game translation professor with over 10 years of experience and the founder of Tacet Books, a publishing house with over 1,000 books published. Creator of the Supercourse on Game Translation, he has also participated in several ed... Show more

Jessica Ellis-Wilson, FACMPE, is the founder and principal of Practical Management & Leadership Consulting. Jessica also serves as Chair of the National Diversity Committee for American Mensa, Co-Chair for the Divisions of Practice Management and Compliance for the Nan Gallagher Law Group, Managing and Artistic Director of the WatermelonAlligator Theatre Company, and co-Managing Producer for Danu Pictures.

A Board-Certified Fellow of the American College of Medical Practice Executives and a Past President of Massachusetts/Rhode Island MGMA, Jessica has guided myriad organizations through periods of uncertainty and upheaval, collaborating with leadership teams to bring about transformative change. Jessica offers leadership consulting, executive coaching, organizational growth, and cultural transformation, with a special focus on equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, as well as facilitating leadership development workshops and Board and Executive retreats.

Jessica is regularly invited to speak nationally on a variety of healthcare, leadership, and humanitarian topics.

Jessica Ellis-Wilson, FACMPE, is the founder and principal of Practical Management & Leadership Consulting. Jessica also serves as Chair of the National Diversity Committee for American Mensa, Co-Chair for the Divisions of Practice Management and Com... Show more

I have been coaching individuals, teams, emerging leaders and leaders, as well as product owners for the last seven years, the previous 20+ years I worked in the Software Industry in a wide variety of roles.

I also enjoy providing training, mentoring coaches, product owners and team members in Agile, Product Ownership, and Team Psychological Safety.

I have been coaching individuals, teams, emerging leaders and leaders, as well as product owners for the last seven years, the previous 20+ years I worked in the Software Industry in a wide variety of roles. I also enjoy providing training, mento... Show more

Logan is a meditation coach with a passion for helping individuals and organizations cultivate inner peace, focus, and well-being. His journey into mindfulness began with a personal health challenge that led him to explore meditation and its transformative power. Logan's diverse background includes working with renowned artist Tyler Hobbs, leading workshops for companies and schools, and facilitating meditation retreats. He brings a unique blend of mindfulness and creative expertise to his work, guiding clients towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their potential. Logan is committed to authenticity, collaboration, and excellence in all his endeavors.

Logan is a meditation coach with a passion for helping individuals and organizations cultivate inner peace, focus, and well-being. His journey into mindfulness began with a personal health challenge that led him to explore meditation and its transfor... Show more

With over 27 years of experience working at the intersection of technology, art, marketing, and business, I offer a comprehensive and sensible perspective on the impact of technological advancements in companies, people, and industries.

With over 27 years of experience working at the intersection of technology, art, marketing, and business, I offer a comprehensive and sensible perspective on the impact of technological advancements in companies, people, and industries. Show more

After 12 years in the hospitality industry Chandra took a leap of faith and pivoted to the tech sales industry as a Sales Development Rep/SDR for a tech startup. Within three years of tech sales experience, she has supercharged her career with rapid growth by trusting her authenticity. She is now an Enterprise seller for Microsoft that has developed a versatile skill set that combines the warmth and grit of hospitality, empathy, consultative challenger selling, hybrid teamwork, leadership, and innovation.

She has been recognized as a culture creator & shifter by companies like Marriott International & Outreach. She is passionate about authenticity, empathy and self-care. She is also a public speaker who enjoys sharing her insights and learnings with others. Her proudest work is being a mother to her 5-year-old son.

After 12 years in the hospitality industry Chandra took a leap of faith and pivoted to the tech sales industry as a Sales Development Rep/SDR for a tech startup. Within three years of tech sales experience, she has supercharged her career with rapid ... Show more

Renée Dalo is a dynamic keynote speaker, educator, and coach who transforms how creative entrepreneurs approach their businesses and lives. Renowned for her approachable and intelligent style (with an extra dash of humor!), Renée combines real-world experience, actionable strategies, and a touch of inspiration to help her audiences thrive.

Renée’s speaking career spans over a decade, with seven consecutive years as a top-rated presenter at Wedding MBA, keynotes at events like NACE Evolve, and workshops at leading conferences such as The Special Event, Alt Summit, and Be Sage. Her ability to connect with audiences, provide real solutions, and make even complex topics accessible has made her one of the most sought-after voices in the wedding and events industry.

With over 13 years of experience as the founder of Moxie Bright Events, Renée knows firsthand the challenges faced by wedding professionals. As a Certified Co-Active Life and Business Coach (CPCC), she also brings unique insights into personal development and the mindset shifts needed to succeed. Her sessions empower entrepreneurs to work smarter, communicate effectively, and embrace their full potential with confidence and moxie.

Renée’s speaking topics are as varied as her expertise, covering everything from building better habits for success to overcoming overwhelm and burnout, from mastering the art of storytelling to creating strong relationships between wedding planners and vendors. She specializes in breaking down complex ideas into actionable takeaways, whether she’s teaching wedding pros how to manage Gen Z clients, navigate tough transitions, or lead with intention on the big day and beyond.

One of Renée’s core philosophies is that personal growth is the foundation of professional success. Whether she’s coaching creatives to express themselves with clarity, helping introverts shine in an extroverted industry, or sharing her journey through pivots and challenges, her sessions always inspire actionable change.

Renée’s accolades include winning Speaker of the Year from the National Association of Catering and Events (NACE), Palm Springs Chapter, recognition by Honeybook’s 20 On The Rise and BizBash’s Most Influential Event Pros, and the upcoming release of her first book, The Coordination Cure. On stage, she delivers every talk with warmth, insight, and her signature wit, leaving audiences inspired to take their next big leap.

Whether you’re looking for a keynote speaker to energize your next event, a workshop leader to bring actionable value to your attendees, or a coach to inspire your team, Renée Dalo delivers.

Renée Dalo is a dynamic keynote speaker, educator, and coach who transforms how creative entrepreneurs approach their businesses and lives. Renowned for her approachable and intelligent style (with an extra dash of humor!), Renée combines real-world ... Show more

Cortina Jenelle Caldwell, MAML is on a mission to make the world, or at least her corner of it, a better place. Since the age of 12, Cortina has been a student of creativity and entrepreneurship, learning at the hands of elders, mentors and teachers in the rural South about how to serve, how to build good business and how to be a leader in life. Having to overcome the challenges of being born to teenage parents, the strife of poverty and the slippery slope of wanting to “make it out”, Cortina had an early passion to build the life God envisioned for her and go beyond the limitations imposed upon her by society. The early teachings to pursue an education, keep God first in all things and be a good human paid off and her life is an ongoing testament to the power of hard work, strategy, resilience, authenticity and working from the heart. Since 2004, Cortina has been speaking to audiences all over the world, seeking to ignite hope and courage in others. Notable achievements in her career include:

EPA & Tuskegee University, Environmental Justice Fellow, 2024;
River City Company, Emerging Producers Fellow, 2024;
ArtsBuild Periscope CHA Fellow, 2024;
Certified ICAgile Professional, 2023;
KNOW Global, Notable Women: Asheville, 2020;
Tzedek Impact Award, 2019;
Certified Grant Writing Professional, 2018;
Certified Creative Facilitator, 2016;
Masters of Art in Business Management & Leadership, 2015;
40 Under Forty: Asheville, 2013;
Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Award, 2012;
Phi Alpha Honor Society, 2008; and
Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, 2005.

Cortina Jenelle Caldwell, MAML is on a mission to make the world, or at least her corner of it, a better place. Since the age of 12, Cortina has been a student of creativity and entrepreneurship, learning at the hands of elders, mentors and teachers ... Show more